The Coat: A Story of Charity

Did you know that this touching story of selflessness and love is true?

When Heber J. Grant was young, his parents were too poor to replace his old, thin jacket. Instead, his mother surprised him with a winter coat she had made by hand. Heber loved it.

One day, as he was playing in the snowy street, he noticed a small boy crouched in front of an exhaust grate, trying to get warm. Heber gave his new coat to the boy, who needed it more than he did.

This Christmas and always, take time to notice the people around you. What can you do to help them? Your service will warm your heart and theirs.

“Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me” (Matt. 25:40).

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints"

[vanderley]

I'm a primary teacher, I once showed this video to a bunch of 6yr olds on my phone. While usually I can barely keep their attention for more than a few seconds, one boy in class suddenly started bawling during this video. I asked what was wrong and he said "I don't know! I don't know why I'm crying!" I had to explain to him that what he was feeling was the Spirit, the love of God.

[drivonike]

I will never get tired of saying that joining this church was the best thing I could have ever done!

[TanookiToadTeam]

This one always gets me. I had an experience on my LDS Mission that was much like this. I will never forget it for as long as I live. We were just about to end the day and we biked right by this kid with shorts and a small coat on. It was late November in Idaho, and it was cold! We biked right by him, waving to make sure he knew that we recognized his presence.

About halfway down the street to get out of that trailer park, both my missionary companion and I got the feeling that we should go back and talk to this kid. We went back and talked with him about Christ, told him that there were prophets on the earth today and gave him a Book of Mormon.

We said a prayer with him, gave him a hug, and he went back into the shadows. The next week he was at church, his mom had been touched and dropped him off there. The young man changed and found confidence and true friends. He was baptized about six months later and I got to be there for that. One of the most special experiences of reaching out to "the one" I've ever had in my life. I'm sure that young President Heber J. Grant was touched by this scene and if he ever needed some comfort, re-imagining and pondering on that wonderful moment from that one Christmas would give him some of the comfort he needed. "Slightest actions often meet the sorest needs" -Hymn #230: "Scatter Sunshine" Verse 2)

[investbo]

I picture the Mother as being Heavenly Father or Christ making my special gift, and then sharing it with others. When they wondered what came of my gift, and I tell them I have given it to another, we all embrace with tears of joy. :)

[kfroman]

This video can make more of an impact on people than any other video...without even saying a word. That is power.

[lilycalderwood]

So cute! The picture of the boy who was given the coat at the end made me cry!

[badashby]

I love this message. It made me remember that when I help someone, I should give them my best. Heber could have gone back home and given the homeless boy his old coat but instead he gave him his new coat. That is such a meaningful way to live life.

[reenasolanki]

This is what Jesus taught us... Awesome story

[murraymon]

Sometimes the coat can be replaced with a kind word, or some quality time with someone. Charity doesn't always have to be something big, so long as we are willing to give what we have.

[mikebasil]

Compassion in any true form can be like a warm coat or blanket. Amen to that. 💝☮️🎄

[kathleensasnett]

Thank you for this sweet simple portrayal of love and compassion. Isn't this exactly why our Savior wants us to be as little children?

[tinastricler]

Yes giving charity unto the least of your brothers and sisters is a wonderful gift for u and for them.

[gracebednarik]

It is amazing how he cared for the other kid, by giving him a coat that his mom made for him, that I know is an act of service and I know that he did the right thing

[sydneytaylor]

I can never get through this video without crying. I hope to be like that.

[vunix]

Religious or not, this video has a beautiful message. I love it!

[kaelisprime]

They served not only each other, but the orphan as well. It’s a really kind and beautiful message about serving others who are not as fortunate as others.

[katherinem.]

We feel good when we help others, and we need to take care of ourselves too!!

[jacobkempton]

These videos make me have a good feeling every time.I also cry every time and I'm young

[sillysauce]

This will always make me cry, every time, no fail.

[kennethreddy]

That boy is very responsible. And caring